Sun Bear
Helarctos malayanus
Conservation Status
Near ThreatenedMammalia · Carnivora · Ursidae
About
The sun bear is a bear species in the family Ursidae found in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. It is the only species in the genus Helarctos and the smallest bear species, standing nearly 70 cm (28 in) at the shoulder and weighing 25–65 kg (55–143 lb). It is stockily built, with large paws, strongly curved claws, small, rounded ears and a short snout. The fur is generally short and jet black, but can vary from grey to red. The sun bear gets its name from its characteristic orange to cream-coloured chest patch.
Fun Fact
Sun bears have the longest tongues relative to body size of any bear — up to 25 cm (10 in) — perfectly adapted for extracting honey and insects from deep inside tree trunks and termite mounds.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Tropical rainforests
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
25-30 years
Threats
- Deforestation
- Illegal Logging
- Wildfire